"I am so grateful," said Elizabeth Friedl, of Grand Rapids, who was at Briggs pool with her children, Lilly, 4 and Wyatt, 2. "When you close pools, you are cutting the options children have to enjoy the summer and be active."

To cover the full cost of opening the three pools, the city is spending $125,000 from its general fund, $44,000 from the income tax check-off designated for children and parks, and Sullivan's gift.

Pools are open 12:30 to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is free to those 17 and under and $4 for adults.

"Excuse me, sir, is it free?" a young trio asked a King Park lifeguard shortly before 12:30 p.m. His "yes" response drew cheers and high five's from Danasia Walton, 11, of Grand Rapids and her two cousins.

"We talked about going swimming for a half-hour last night," she said.

Barb Lester, of Grand Rapids, said she was quick to donate because she wanted kids to have something to do.

"We are not saving money when we take something away from children," said Lester, who was at King pool.